Gold Coast city skyline Gold Coast Industry News

The Gold Coast Directory introduced this blog to provide a platform for Gold Coast businesses to update the local business community with recent industry developments, networking events, company achievements and the latest about doing business on the Gold Coast.

If you have any news, press releases or business events on the Gold Coast that you want to tell the community about,
we'd love to help! Please email your article or news to [email protected] with the subject line “Attn: Gold Coast Industry News”.

The Whale Watching Season Approaches!

Posted on May 17, 2011 by admin

Time for Whale Watching!
It’s getting to that time of year again as we enter into another season of whale watching on the Gold Coast. Enjoy the breathtaking sights with the original and highly preferred whale watching professionals for the experience of a lifetime when you cruise with Whale Watching Gold Coast.

We follow the annual Humpback Whale migration along the spectacular Gold Coast beaches between the months of May and November each year (since 2005), watching closely as they migrate from the freezing cold waters of Antarctica to mate and calve in the warmer waters off the coast of Australia.

Each year at least 13,500 humpbacks migrate 5000km to the eastern coast of Australia. Watch as the whales perform spectacular aerial breaches and sing long, complex ‘songs’ throughout the breeding season.

About our Whale Watching Tours & Cruises

View these magnificent creatures up close and personal as they appear right beside our boat! The MV 2000 is the largest whale watching vessel on the Gold Coast and with 5 spacious viewing areas you will definitely catch all of the action. Our luxurious 32 metre high speed, wave piercing catamaran boasts maximum viewing areas, stability & comfort.

Enjoy complimentary morning tea on both the half day whale watching tour and the full day whale watching and island tour, along with large video displays of informative whale documentaries and commentary from our experienced eco team. Departing from Mariners Cove daily, be sure not to miss this exciting opportunity to experience these majestic mammals in their natural habitat.

Our crew have been tracking the route of the whales since Whale Watching Gold Coast was established in 2005. The experience of the skippers and crew with guarantee a journey that won’t be forgotten – share in the passion and excitement these whales create and experience the journey for yourself. Phone and book your whale adventure today on 1300 WHALES (942537), or book a whale watching tour online with Whale Watching Gold Coast.

Posted in Boating, Tourism | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Roller Derby – Sunstate Roller Girls vs Victorian Roller Derby League

Posted on April 19, 2011 by admin

Roller Derby is coming to the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre for the first time on Saturday 30 April in a night of fierce competition when the Sunstate Roller Girls will take on the Victorian Roller Derby League.

The American-invented contact sport has been gaining momentum across the world as more and more join the competition, and since making it big on the Drew Barrymore directed film ‘Whip It’. It’s also leaving its mark on Australia where there are now more than 30 roller derby leagues in existence.

This month the Centre’s Arena, which has famously staged big names Rihanna, Billy Connolly, the Gold Coast Blaze and the cream of the surfing community at the ASP World Champions Crowning, will be transformed into a roller skating track to host the unrelenting bout between north and south.

Come see the coolest all‐women’s sport and some of the nation’s finest roller derby athletes as they strap on their helmets and skate it out for number one.
Tickets available through Ticketek now.  For further information please visit www.gccec.com.au.

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Sanctuary Cove’s Boat Show Shines On All Things Marine

Posted on April 19, 2011 by admin

Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is set to dazzle with both marine and entertainment stars as part of the May program.

One of Australasia’s leading marine events, the four-day Show is staged Thursday, May 19 to Sunday, May 22 from 9am to 5pm daily.

This is the 23rd annual event organized by Sanctuary Cove on Queensland’s Gold Coast. This year’s Show features more than 360 exhibitors from around Australia, the United States, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, China and Taiwan.

The display worth many millions of dollars features more than 130 boats on water at the marina, plus hundreds of additional boat and marine accessories in two large pavilions and in open-air displays through the waterfront Marine Village. Exhibits range from super yachts to offshore cruisers, sail boats, trailerable craft, kayaks, engines, electronics and charter companies.

Sanctuary Cove General Manager Events and Marketing Sue Thomson said this year’s boosted entertainment program should keep crowds further entertained.

“This year we have introduced boating and fishing seminars through Marine Queensland which are included within the Boat Show entry price,” said Ms Thomson.

The increasing role of women in the marine industry is acknowledged by the Show with the new series of activities – Women On Water (WOW).

This includes seminars, fashion parades, skipper training aimed at women with a female skipper and female-focused lunches High Tea on the High Seas.

As well, Channel Seven personalities and My Kitchen Rules contestants will make appearances at the Show

There are live radio broadcasts, cooking demonstrations by Club Marine magazine chef Bart Beek and a daily musical and entertainment program.

“Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show offers some outstanding elements as a marine event,” said Ms Thomson.

“The Marine Village provides a pleasant environment with restaurants, cafes, shops and waterfront views overlooking the displays.

“The Show is also known worldwide for its very wide selection of marine vessels, products and services. We know there are at least 70 world and national releases confirmed thus far.”

Some of the crowd-pleasers include the 31.5m long-range super yacht Black Pearl from New Zealand; a display of multi-million dollar Horizon boats including the world launch of the Horizon Q70 Elegance and the Australian release of sail boats including the Catalina 445 and 355, the Hunter e36, the Beneteau First 30 and the Corsair C37 trimaran.

As in past years, an International Business Lounge will operate to assist international buyers and businesses to network and make valuable contacts with Australian companies. This facility is provided through a partnership between the Queensland Government’s Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI), Austrade, the Gold Coast City Council (Business GC), the Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX), Superyacht Australia, Superior Jetties and Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.

And on Friday, visitors can book to attend the Australian Marine Industry Breakfast featuring President Monte Carlo Yachts S.p.A Carla Demaria as guest speaker.

Online ticket prices are $A22 one day adult; $A19 one day concession; $A40 two-day adult and $A75 four-day adult. Children 14 years and under have free entry.

VIP packages have been introduced this year including luxury accommodation and helicopter transfers.

For full details on the Women On Water program; boat show activities; Friday breakfast or new products at the Show, view the website on www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au Some elements of the program require booking and/or additional payments beyond the Boat Entry ticket price .

Club Marine is a sponsor. Media partners include BoatPoint.com.au, Channel Seven, 4KQ, Trade a Boat and 92.5 Gold FM. Maritime Safety Queensland is a government supporter. Barz Optics is a supporter.

The $A2 billion Sanctuary Cove, located on the northern Gold Coast, is Australia’s leading and most successful master-planned community. Sanctuary Cove was acquired by current owners Mulpha Sanctuary Cove (Developments) Pty Limited in 2002. MSCD, an arm of Mulpha Australia Limited, which is a subsidiary of Malaysian listed Mulpha International BHD, has invested significantly in Sanctuary Cove over recent years, resulting in a major transformation designed to ensure the pre-eminent community remains at the forefront of master-planned living in Australia.

Posted in Boating, Events, Tourism | Tagged | Leave a comment

A Pet Tech Pet First Aid Instructor Is Ready To Teach You!!

Posted on April 19, 2011 by admin

Pet Tech the first international training centre dedicated to pet CPR, first aid and care is proud to announce their newest Instructor on the Gold Coast of Queensland.

Ali Barclay, Director of Wag the Dog completed the Pet Tech Instructor Training Program in New Orleans in February 2011 and is qualified to teach the Pet Tech family of programs.

Pet  first aid  is  the  immediate care given  to any pet  that  is  injured or  ill.  If you are a pet owner or pet care professional you should be trained in the necessary skills and techniques of pet first aid.

This  course  offers  everyday  pet  owners  and  professionals  the  chance  to  learn  the  skills  and  techniques which  are  necessary  to  prepare  the  owner  or  carer  in  the  unfortunate  event  of  a  medical  emergency involving their pet, or a pet in their care. Some of the topics highlighted in the class include:

  • CPR
  • Rescue Breathing
  • Shock Management
  • Bleeding Protocols
  • Injury and Wellness Assessments
  • Heat Injuries
  • Cold Injuries, and
  • Pet Care

The Wag  the Dog mission  statement  is  simple;  to  help  owners  and  their  dogs  live  in  harmony  through education,  exercise  and  training  –  all  of  the  key  things  a  dog  needs  to  be  a  happy  and  satisfied  pack member!

Teaching  Pet  Tech’s  PetSaver™  class  is  going  to  be  a major  component  in  spreading  the word  about adequate and competent pet care, primarily among pet owners, but also among pet professionals on  the Gold Coast. There is no other course like this on the Gold Coast, or  indeed Australia,  it  is a one of a kind program and essential for all pet lovers.

Ali is looking forward to teaching Pet Tech to fellow pet owners and animal lovers; education is knowledge and knowledge  is power  – with Pet Tech, we  can all  challenge  the  concepts  that people have about pet healthcare,  we  can make  pet  owners  and  professionals wiser  and we  can  help  to  create  healthier  and happier pets.

“Now pet owners can learn pet CPR, first aid and care and give their pets the best chance possible should the relevant circumstances arise.” notes Ali Barclay.

For more information or to sign-up for one of our classes, call Ali Barclay at Wag the Dog on 0423 694 534. Alternately you can email Ali – [email protected] or refer to the Pet Tech Australia website for class schedules and additional information: www.pettech.net.au

Posted in First Aid, Pets | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

New Gold Coast consultancy for females, family & health

Posted on April 19, 2011 by admin

Nicole Madigan Everest launches Gold Coast consultancy, focus on female, family and health

A feature writer, columnist and consulting PR manager of global fashion brand Unit Clothing, Nicole Madigan Everest is expanding her services to include all facets of public relations, marketing communications, corporate and website copy, focusing on the industries of family, females and health.

Everest has more than ten years experience in the communications industry, having worked in the fields of marketing, editing, public relations and journalism.

“The years spent writing about and reporting on family/parenting/children, women’s issues and health has allowed me to develop extensive knowledge of and contacts in these industries.

“It has also shown me that these areas are unique in their communications requirements; from writing style through to PR concepts.

“Businesses and individuals targeting females and family are increasing at a particularly rapid rate; and society’s thirst for knowledge relating to health and wellbeing cannot be quenched.

“They’re exciting industries which I have personal as well as professional experience in. As a journalist, I enjoy writing about these and related topics and look forward to helping niche businesses and individuals spread their message.”

Nicole Madigan Everest
Journalist || Communications Consultant

P: 0421 702 922
E: [email protected]
W: www.nicolemadiganeverest.com
B: www.nicolemadiganeverest.blogspot.com
T: www.twitter.com/NMadiganEverest

Posted in Business | 1 Comment

GCCEC Flicks the Switch for Earth Hour 2011

Posted on March 25, 2011 by admin

Joining hundreds of businesses across Australia, the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) prepares to flick the switch for Earth Hour at 8:30pm, Saturday 26 March.

The GCCEC will be switching off all power supplies including lights, air conditioning and computers that do not immediately affect clients on site to allow for maximum power reduction.

Taking steps to reduce its carbon footprint every day, the Centre is supporting a greener world through a number of sustainable initiatives embedded into its architecture and operational practices.

Naturally lit foyers reducing electricity consumption, working with local suppliers to change the way goods are packaged and delivered, and menus consisting of 85 per cent locally grown ingredients are just some of the few small steps which have made the Centre a leader among Australia’s sustainable conferencing venues.

Since 2008 the GCCEC has been adjusting staff behaviour and operational practices in line with the international standards required by the world leading environmental management program, EarthCheck, for which it has recently re‐achieved Silver Certification.

This year, as part of the 2011 Earth Hour campaign and in line with its own practices, the GCCEC is encouraging staff to ‘go beyond the hour’ in their own homes and commit to enduring changes for the planet by making simple, everyday changes to reduce their environmental footprint.

Posted in Sustainability & Going Green | Tagged , | Leave a comment

Come see the latest show at Qld Theatre of Puppetry this Easter!

Posted on March 22, 2011 by admin

This Easter holiday, The Queensland Theatre of Puppetry will be hosting a very special show.  Due to anticipated audience attendance it will, for the first time, include a weekend performance.

Richard Hart from Dream Puppets is coming to the Gold Coast to perform Superbia.

Superbia is a celebration of Australian Suburban life and the natural world.  A richly detailed three dimensional suburban world is realised within this exquisitely designed piece of black light puppet theatre, where the Dreamer family battle to save their home from supermarket take over.  Suitable for ages 4+

Performances are from Sunday 17 April to Thursday 21 April 2011, with shows at 9:30 and 11am.

The Queensland Theatre of Puppetry is a voluntary, not-for-profit organisation that has been performing puppet shows for families on the Gold Coast for 40 years.  Most of these have been at the theatre named after their founder, the Gerda Pinter Pavillion at Macintosh Island Park, Surfers Paradise.

Attention media: Cute kids and eye-catching puppets can be organised for pre-event photos and video. Call Rita Monteith on 0438 526 411or email to [email protected]

SUMMARY

Event name: Superbia

Dates: Sunday 17 April to Thursday 21 April 2011

Event times: Two shows daily at 9.30am and 11am

Location: Gerda Pinter Pavilion, southern end of Macintosh Island Park, Surfers Paradise.

Cost: $5 per person

Information: Visit www.qtop.org.au or call Rita on 0438 526 411

Posted in Kids & Teens, Tourism | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

First Aid Qualifications – Fast-tracked!

Posted on March 22, 2011 by admin

St John First Aid is now offering a comprehensive first aid course in just 8 hours.  At the completion of the course competent participants will receive a nationally accredited qualification (HLTFA301B – Apply First Aid).

Of course, it is still possible to do the course in two days, giving more time for practical work and additional qualifications.  A two day course will give participants not only the nationally recognised qualification in Apply First Aid but also a qualification in the operation of an Automated External Defibrillator, the Management of Asthma in the Workplace and the Management of Anaphalaxis in the Workplace.

No matter what level of first aid qualification you need St John First Aid has a course for everyone.  Phone 05 5591 3911 or check out our website on www.stjohnqld.com.au

Do you have a training qualification? Are you aware the BSZ will soon not be valid.  St John First Aid Solutions can not only help with first aid training but now can update your training qualification to the new TAE no matter what industry you train in.  Just call St John First Aid Solutions on 5591 3911 for all the information.

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Serene Living Relishes Tweed Market Boom

Posted on March 18, 2011 by admin

PRODA’s Serene Living development is meeting demand for a booming Tweed over 55’s market with the latest sales rush reaching the 70 per cent sold mark.

The $46 million luxury over 55’s resort has experienced a continual sales run on average of 2.5 sales per week with total sales amassing $30.5 million.

Located with convenience in mind close to the Tweed Heads CBD, 52 luxury apartments have now sold with a dominant buyers market being driven by the Tweed region.

Serene Living marketing manager Amber Holmes said the latest sales run is a sign of a thriving Tweed region, where rapid growth in the retiree market is pushing demand skyward.

“We have sold 11 luxury units in the last four weeks alone, which demonstrates a strong demand for a development like Serene Living, offering the perfect sea change lifestyle in one of the most idyllic locations on the Tweed,” said Ms Holmes.

“With 63 per cent of our purchasers originating from a 20 km radius it is clear that locals have truly embraced Serene Living. We have experienced the majority of interest from areas such as Greenbank, Tweed Heads and Banora Point and interest from surrounding areas including the Gold Coast, Beaudesert, Brisbane and even Sydney.

“The Tweed region continues to be seen as a first choice destination by baby boomers keen to snap up the opportunity to live so close to the heart of the CBD in one of the very few coastal development sites available in the Tweed region.”

Proda director Ben Fuller said the Tweed Shire has long been recognised as the retirement capital of NSW and Serene Living is setting the benchmark for retirees who are looking for the ideal lifestyle in a central location with an array of quality facilities.

“Tweed is a great place to live with an unsurpassed lifestyle which suits residents perfectly and provides easy living close to shopping centres, entertainment and sophisticated dining precincts,” said Mr Fuller.

“We believe the continual sales are a testament to the unique lifestyle that Serene Living provides and we are very thankful for the ongoing support shown by the local community.

“Our residents want to enjoy the simple things in life, yet benefit from the ultimate convenience of town living, opposite the Tweed Heads Bowls Club greens and within walking distance to Tweed Centro, Twin Towns Services Club, alfresco dining & beaches.”

The upmarket resort-style development comprises 77 spacious apartments with one plus study and two and three bedroom ensuite apartments with generous balcony spaces.

Serene Living will feature one of the largest rooftop garden oasis’ in the southern hemisphere, providing residents with their own personal paradise.  The ‘Garden in the Sky’ is the perfect spot to entertain visitors or simply relax and enjoy the pristine views of the Tweed and its picturesque surrounds.

The up-market project will offer more than 50 services and facilities, including a cinema and function facility, library, residents’ club car, heated pool and spa, a state of the art gymnasium, rooftop garden, games room and innovative smart home wiring technology ensuring the safety and security of residents.

The new display office is located across from the building site, next to the greens of the Tweed Heads Bowls Club. The building site is located on the corner of Florence St and Florence Place Tweed Heads and is open from 10-4pm DST Monday to Saturday (closed Sunday). For further information please phone 1800 988 278 or visit www.sereneliving.com.au

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Attention Dog Lovers: Win a Free Photography Session

Posted on March 18, 2011 by admin

Charlotte Reeves, a leading Gold Coast pet photographer, is excited to announce that she’ll be having a stall at this year’s RSPCA Million Paws Walk at Pizzey Park Off Leash Dog Park on the Gold Coast, on Sunday 15th May 2011.

Meet Charlotte in person and browse through a selection of her beautiful photos from recent sessions – she’ll also be taking some candid shots throughout the day which will be uploaded to the Charlotte Reeves Photography Facebook page after the event so make sure you check it out and tag yourself! Charlotte will also have her big puppy Luna the Great Dane by her side to meet her many fans.

If you’re heading there to participate in the walk, make sure you stop by and say hello! Charlotte will be running a special on the day and also be donating a mini session to the raffle so be sure to grab yourself a ticket to be in with a chance to win.

See you there!

Posted in Pets, Photography | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment